Last Updated:

March 28th, 2025

A day in rehab

Addiction can be very difficult to cope with. Unfortunately for many people, however, the idea of starting addiction rehab is too intimidating. This can potentially prevent individuals from accessing appropriate support, meaning that there is a high unmet treatment need in the UK. One of the best ways to address this treatment need is by offering transparent, accessible information on what happens in rehab. By providing a clear sense of what to expect during your treatment, we aim to alleviate anxiety and potentially dispel some of the myths around what happens in rehabilitation centres.
Group of persons in rehab

What is rehab?

Rehabilitation, or rehab, is a structured programme aimed at helping individuals overcome addiction and build a healthier, substance-free life. As a chronic disease, addiction can severely impact individuals and their families, but rehab offers a pathway to recovery through comprehensive support. By combining medical, psychological, and social care, rehabilitation addresses addiction’s complex nature in a holistic, tailored way.

Yet, a significant treatment gap remains: 47% of opiate users, 60% of crack users, and 83% of those with alcohol addiction lack the support they need to pursue recovery. Rehab programmes work to close this gap by making recovery more accessible and personalised.

A day in rehab

A day in rehab is thoughtfully structured to help clients immerse themselves in recovery, fostering both personal growth and a supportive community environment. Each aspect of the day, from therapeutic sessions to recreational activities, aims to promote healing and provide essential tools for long-term sobriety.

Here’s an in-depth look at what a typical day in rehab might entail:

08:00 – Medication (if needed)

The day begins with morning medication administration, if necessary. Medication can be vital in managing withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring mental health conditions, or other medical needs. Properly scheduled doses support stability throughout the day, enabling residents to engage in treatment fully.

08:20 – Breakfast

A nutritious breakfast helps to restore physical health and energy, which may have been impacted by substance use. Balanced meals also improve cognitive function, mood, and concentration, all of which support recovery efforts.

09:10 – Meditation

Meditation practices, often focusing on mindfulness, breathing, or guided visualisation, help residents start the day with a calm mind. Meditation improves self-awareness, reduces stress, and promotes emotional regulation, making it a beneficial tool for those managing addiction triggers and cravings.

09:45 – Break

A brief break gives residents a chance to process the morning’s activities, connect with peers, and mentally prepare for group therapy. Breaks throughout the day encourage balance, ensuring residents are not overwhelmed.

10:00 – 11:15 – Process Group

Process groups allow residents to share their experiences, emotions, and challenges with peers in a supportive environment. This guided group therapy promotes vulnerability, trust-building, and mutual understanding, helping individuals work through their addiction-related thoughts and behaviours.

11:15 – 11:45 – Break

This break provides a moment of decompression after an intense group session. Residents can reflect on the insights gained or speak with staff for extra support if needed.

11:45 – 12:30 – Group/DBT

In this session, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) or other group work is used to teach practical skills for managing emotions, relationships, and stress. DBT is particularly effective for those with emotional regulation challenges and teaches skills like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

12:30 – 14:00 – Lunch

Lunch is an opportunity to replenish energy and interact with peers in a relaxed setting. Balanced meals support physical well-being, providing nutrients that enhance cognitive function, energy, and mood.

13:00 – 13:30 – Medication (if needed)

For those who require it, midday medication is provided to maintain stability and manage symptoms throughout the day.

13:30 – 14:00 – Family Visits

Family visits allow residents to reconnect with loved ones in a supportive environment. Family involvement can strengthen the recovery process, as open communication and family therapy address relationship dynamics that may have contributed to the addiction. This time helps rebuild trust and support networks.

14:00 – 14:45 – Group Work

Afternoon group work may focus on specific topics such as relapse prevention, life skills, or stress management. Residents learn coping strategies and tools to help them manage real-life situations post-rehab. Group work reinforces accountability and builds resilience.

15:00 – 15:45 – Workshop

Workshops cover essential topics for life after rehab, including managing finances, job readiness, and healthy lifestyle habits. These practical sessions equip residents with the knowledge they need to thrive independently and maintain a fulfilling life in recovery.

16:15 – Daily Walk

Physical activity, like a daily walk, improves mental and physical health by boosting endorphins, relieving stress, and fostering a sense of calm. Walking outdoors also allows residents to connect with nature, which can be grounding and therapeutic.

16:45 – Phone Time

Supervised phone time allows residents to reconnect with family or friends, giving them the opportunity to maintain supportive relationships while still following program boundaries. Contact with loved ones can provide emotional support and encouragement, while limited phone use encourages residents to remain focused on recovery.

17:30 – Dinner

Dinner is another balanced meal that supports overall health and healing. Sharing meals in a communal setting strengthens bonds between residents and helps cultivate a sense of community, which is often a core component of recovery.

18:00 – Medication (if needed)

Evening medication, if prescribed, helps residents wind down and prepare for a restful night. It ensures any lingering symptoms or conditions are managed, promoting a stable, restful end to the day.

19:00 – Phones In

Phones are collected to reduce distractions and encourage mindfulness in the evening. A digital detox helps residents disengage from external stressors and focus on internal reflection and connection with the rehab community.

19:30 – TV / Social Time

TV or social time allows residents to relax and enjoy casual activities in a low-pressure environment. This time helps normalise social interactions and promotes a sense of balance, reminding residents that recovery can include relaxation and enjoyment.

22:00 – Medication (if needed)

For residents who need additional support, nighttime medication may be administered to assist with restful sleep. Quality sleep is essential in supporting emotional stability, cognitive function, and overall health, all critical to a successful recovery process.

23:00 – Lights Out

A structured bedtime promotes a healthy sleep routine, encouraging residents to get the rest they need. A good night’s sleep helps with emotional resilience, physical recovery, and mental clarity, all of which support progress in the programme and long-term sobriety.

The role of detox

Detoxification, commonly known as detox, is the initial phase of addiction treatment, focusing on safely managing withdrawal symptoms and purging the body of harmful substances. It is often the first step on the path to recovery and plays a crucial role in preparing individuals for further therapeutic work. Here’s how detox contributes to the addiction recovery process:

Physical stabilisation: Detox is designed to physically stabilise individuals who have been dependent on substances. With professional monitoring, clients are monitored for health risks associated with withdrawal, such as seizures, dehydration, and heart complications. Medical staff can intervene with appropriate medications and care, reducing the risks associated with sudden cessation of drug or alcohol use.

Managing withdrawal symptoms: Withdrawal symptoms vary widely depending on the substance involved, the duration and intensity of use, and individual health factors. Detox programmes provide medical and psychological support to alleviate these symptoms, which can range from nausea and headaches to severe anxiety and hallucinations. Some detox programmes use medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms more comfortably.

Creating a safe and controlled environment: Detox in a professional setting ensures a safe, controlled environment where clients can undergo withdrawal without access to the substances they are addicted to. This secure setting is essential, as it minimises the chance of relapse during this critical phase. By removing external triggers and temptations, clients are better able to focus on their recovery.

Addressing immediate mental health needs: Detox can also be mentally challenging, as it may bring up intense cravings, anxiety, or other emotional responses. During detox, mental health professionals are on hand to help clients cope with the psychological impact of withdrawal and any underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, which might surface as the body rids itself with addictive substances.

Laying the foundation for further treatment: While detox is essential, it does not address the psychological roots of addiction. Instead, it clears the way for therapies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or family therapy to begin. Detox provides individuals with a clearer mindset, which allows them to engage more effectively in therapy and tackle the emotional aspects of addiction that often drive substance use.
Building resilience through medical support: In medically monitored detox programmes, clients learn coping techniques and begin to understand the resilience needed for recovery. The medical support received during detox helps build confidence and assurance, showing individuals that they can successfully overcome physical dependence with the right help.

By providing a safe, medically supported environment, detox helps to minimise the physical and psychological discomfort associated with withdrawal. This initial stabilisation is essential for making clients physically and mentally prepared for the deeper, more transformative work that follows in addiction treatment.

A deeper look into the therapies used

Addiction rehab offers a multifaceted approach to recovery, combining a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. Each therapy plays a specific role in the recovery journey, helping clients address the roots of their addiction, understand their behaviours, and cultivate new coping skills. Here’s a closer look at some of the primary therapies offered in addiction rehab programmes:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a cornerstone of addiction treatment that aims to help individuals identify and change thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their addiction. By focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions, CBT empowers clients to recognise triggers, reframe negative thoughts, and develop healthier responses to stressors.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

Originally designed for individuals struggling with intense emotions, DBT is beneficial for those in addiction recovery, particularly when co-occurring mental health disorders are present. DBT teaches clients how to regulate emotions, improve relationships, and cope with distress without resorting to substance use. Its techniques, such as mindfulness and distress tolerance, help clients stay present and manage cravings effectively.

Holistic Therapies

Holistic therapies encompass a range of non-traditional approaches that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These may include:

Art Therapy: Clients express emotions and experiences through creative outlets, aiding in processing trauma and fostering self-expression.
Music Therapy: The therapeutic use of music provides an emotional release, encourages mindfulness, and often helps clients connect with their emotions in a constructive way.
Yoga and Meditation: Both practices encourage relaxation, self-awareness, and stress reduction, which are invaluable for managing cravings and anxiety.
Vibration and Gong Therapy: These sound-based therapies use vibrations to induce relaxation, reduce stress, and aid emotional processing.

12-Step

Based on the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), 12-step introduces clients to the structured support of a 12-step programme. This approach emphasises community support, personal accountability, and the development of spiritual awareness as a means of maintaining sobriety.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

MI is a client-centred therapy that helps individuals find personal motivation for recovery. Through open-ended questions and empathetic dialogue, therapists work with clients to explore their ambivalence toward change, boost self-efficacy, and encourage a genuine desire for a healthier lifestyle.

Family Therapy

Addiction often affects the entire family unit. Family therapy brings loved ones together to address the dynamics that may have contributed to the addiction, foster understanding, and build healthy boundaries. This therapy educates family members about addiction, supports the healing of relationships, and equips them with tools to assist in their loved one’s recovery.

Trauma-Focused Therapies

Trauma is a common underlying factor in addiction. Therapies like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused CBT are designed to help clients process traumatic experiences safely. These therapies reduce the emotional impact of past trauma, providing relief from symptoms like flashbacks and nightmares, which can contribute to relapse if unaddressed.

Experiential Therapies

Experiential therapies use activities like role-playing, recreation, and group outings to help individuals explore emotions and resolve personal conflicts. These activities, which may include things like adventure therapy or equine therapy, promote self-discovery and often help clients access emotions that traditional talk therapy may not reach.

Aftercare and Continued Support

Addiction treatment doesn’t end when a rehab programme is completed; continued support is essential for long-term recovery. Programmes typically offer aftercare services, such as alumni groups, relapse prevention planning, and ongoing counselling, to ensure that clients feel supported as they transition back into daily life.

These therapies are integrated within a personalised treatment plan to create a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery. By offering a variety of therapeutic interventions, rehab centres, like UKAT, ensure that each individual receives the support needed to overcome addiction and build a fulfilling, sober life.

The difference between group and individual therapy

Group and individual therapy are both central components of addiction rehab, each offering unique benefits to support recovery. While both approaches focus on healing and personal growth, they provide different environments, dynamics, and methods to address addiction-related challenges.

Here’s how they differ and the specific roles each plays in the recovery journey:

Setting and Structure

Individual Therapy: In individual therapy, clients work one-on-one with a therapist in a private, confidential setting. This allows for personalised attention, where sessions can be tailored to address specific issues, challenges, and goals unique to the individual.
Group Therapy: Group therapy involves a small, structured group of individuals led by a therapist, where participants share their experiences, challenges, and successes. The structure encourages open dialogue and mutual support, with each member contributing to and learning from the collective experience.

Focus of Discussion

Individual Therapy: Sessions are highly individualised, focusing on deep-seated issues and personal challenges that might be difficult or sensitive to share in a group. Therapists work to uncover the root causes of addiction, such as trauma, and develop coping strategies tailored to the individual’s life circumstances and personal recovery goals.
Group Therapy: Group therapy often focuses on shared themes and issues, allowing participants to connect over similar experiences and challenges. Sessions may revolve around topics like managing cravings, building healthy relationships, or setting boundaries, with each participant contributing insights and support to one another.

Pace and Personalisation

Individual Therapy: With one-on-one time, clients can explore issues at their own pace, ensuring that they fully understand and address each aspect of their recovery journey. Therapists can adapt therapeutic techniques and session pacing based on the individual’s needs, making this format particularly effective for those with complex mental health or addiction issues.
Group Therapy: In group settings, the pace is more generalised, as the therapist must balance the needs of all participants. However, this format allows clients to hear different perspectives and solutions, which can enrich their understanding of recovery and offer alternative ways of approaching similar issues.

Social and Emotional Support

Individual Therapy: The therapist serves as the primary source of support and guidance, helping the client work through complex emotions and develop self-awareness. This format is ideal for those who may feel uncomfortable sharing personal struggles in front of others and who benefit from a close, trusting relationship with a therapist.
Group Therapy: Group therapy provides a supportive community where individuals gain strength and motivation from others who understand their journey. This setting is particularly beneficial for breaking the isolation that often accompanies addiction, helping clients rebuild trust and communication skills, and fostering a sense of belonging and accountability within the group.

Skill-Building and Practice

Individual Therapy: Clients focus on developing self-awareness and personalised coping skills. They can work on specific techniques, like mindfulness or cognitive restructuring, that are tailored to their unique challenges, with the therapist providing immediate feedback and guidance.
Group Therapy: Group settings allow individuals to practise social skills, learn from others’ experiences, and improve their ability to listen, empathise, and communicate effectively. Group therapy helps clients observe different coping strategies and apply these skills in a social setting, reinforcing behavioural change through peer support.

Confidentiality and Privacy

Individual Therapy: Individual therapy provides a high level of privacy, where clients can discuss personal and sensitive topics they may not wish to share in a group. This environment encourages openness and honesty, particularly for individuals working through trauma or highly personal issues.
Group Therapy: Group therapy, while confidential, requires individuals to share within a collective setting. Therapists enforce ground rules to maintain a safe, respectful space, but some clients may take time to adjust to the level of openness required in a group.

At UKAT, we incorporate both individual and group therapy, as each format complements the other. Individual therapy provides the depth and personalisation necessary for addressing specific issues, while group therapy builds community support, reduces isolation, and reinforces social skills. Together, they offer a well-rounded therapeutic experience that addresses the individual’s needs holistically, enhancing resilience, social connection, and personal growth.

What is a rehab centre like?

Rehab settings can vary widely depending on the facility and the type of treatment programme. However, most rehab centres share some common characteristics:

Environment:

Residential Facilities: Many rehab centres provide a residential setting where patients stay on-site for a specified duration. These facilities often resemble homes or lodges, featuring shared or private rooms, communal areas, dining facilities, and outdoor spaces.
Outpatient Programmes: Some programmes allow individuals to live at home while attending therapy sessions and group meetings at the facility. This setting is typically more flexible but requires a strong support system at home.

Treatment Areas:

Counselling Rooms: Private spaces for one-on-one therapy sessions or small group discussions.
Group Therapy Rooms: Larger areas where group sessions take place, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Activity Rooms: Spaces designated for recreational or therapeutic activities, such as art therapy, yoga, or exercise classes.

Supportive Services:

Medical Facilities: Many rehab centres have on-site medical staff to monitor withdrawal symptoms and provide medication management if needed.
Nutrition Services: Meals are typically provided, focusing on healthy eating to support overall well-being during recovery.

Daily Structure:

Structured Schedule: Rehab often involves a daily routine that includes therapy sessions, support group meetings, and recreational activities, helping individuals build a sense of normalcy and discipline.
Mindfulness and Wellness Activities: Programmes may include mindfulness practices, meditation, or yoga to promote mental and emotional well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches:

Individual Therapy: Personalised counselling sessions with a licensed therapist to address specific issues related to addiction and mental health.
Group Therapy: Sessions led by trained professionals where participants share experiences and support one another.
Holistic Therapies: Some centres incorporate alternative therapies such as art therapy, music therapy, or acupuncture to aid healing.

Community Atmosphere:

Peer Support: Living and interacting with others undergoing similar experiences can foster a sense of camaraderie and support.
Family Involvement: Many programmes encourage family participation in therapy sessions or educational workshops to improve communication and support systems.

Overall, rehab is designed to provide a safe, supportive environment where individuals can focus on recovery, learn coping skills, and begin to rebuild their lives. The goal is to create a balanced atmosphere that addresses physical, emotional, and psychological needs.

If you want to see what UKAT rehab centres are like, check out our YouTube video for a closer look!

AA + CA Meetings

At UKAT, we recognise the value of community support in addiction recovery. That’s why we incorporate Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Cocaine Anonymous (CA) meetings within our rehab programme, either by hosting meetings onsite or attending them with our clients. These meetings foster a sense of belonging and provide clients with tools to manage life beyond rehab.

Benefits of AA + CA meetings

Peer Support and Accountability

Attending AA and CA meetings gives clients the chance to connect with others who have firsthand experience with addiction. Sharing stories and challenges within a supportive community helps build accountability and shows clients they’re not alone in their journey.

Building Recovery Tools

Both AA and CA follow a structured 12-step programme that offers guidance for overcoming addiction. Working through these steps encourages self-reflection, emotional growth, and personal responsibility—all essential for long-term sobriety.

A Lifelong Network of Support

Establishing a support network is one of the most significant advantages of attending AA or CA meetings during rehab. This network remains available to clients after they leave our programme, providing ongoing encouragement and support for years to come.

Incorporating AA and CA meetings as part of UKAT’s rehab programme ensures that our clients have multiple support structures in place as they work toward a fulfilling, sober life.

The importance of downtime

In a structured rehab environment, downtime plays a critical role in supporting emotional, mental, and physical recovery. While therapy sessions, group work, and activities are essential for building skills and self-awareness, scheduled downtime is equally valuable. This quiet time allows residents to reflect, recharge, and begin reconnecting with themselves.

Benefits of downtime in rehab

Reflection and processing: Downtime provides residents with the opportunity to process insights gained from therapy. This quiet period lets them internalise lessons, consider personal goals, and reflect on their progress, which helps build self-awareness and reinforces learning.
Reducing stress and preventing burnout: Rehab can be intense and emotionally demanding, so taking breaks throughout the day reduces stress and helps residents avoid emotional burnout. This balance of activity and rest allows clients to feel more grounded and capable of facing each day’s challenges.
Building healthy coping mechanisms: Learning to enjoy quiet time is a significant skill, especially for those who previously relied on substances to fill emotional gaps. Downtime helps residents practise self-soothing techniques, from journaling to mindfulness, creating new ways to manage stress that can be used after rehab.
Strengthening peer connections: Unstructured time also allows clients to build relationships with peers in an organic way. Socialising outside of structured activities can help foster a supportive community, creating a network of friendships that continue to offer support beyond rehab.

Incorporating downtime into rehab routines helps clients build resilience, discover new coping skills, and find inner calm, all of which are essential components of long-term recovery.

Family Involvement in Rehab

Family involvement is a vital component of the rehabilitation process at UKAT. Recognising the profound impact that addiction has on family dynamics, we actively encourage and facilitate family participation throughout treatment. Engaging family members helps foster a supportive environment that promotes healing and understanding for both the individual in recovery and their loved ones.

Benefits of family involvement in rehab

Strengthening family bonds: Addiction often strains relationships, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. Involving family members in the rehab process allows for open communication and healing. Family therapy sessions provide a safe space for loved ones to express their feelings, rebuild trust, and strengthen connections. This collaborative effort helps families develop healthier patterns of interaction, which is crucial for long-term recovery.
Understanding the recovery journey: Family members gain insight into the nature of addiction and recovery through education and involvement. They learn about the complexities of addiction, triggers, and coping strategies, which empowers them to provide effective support. This understanding fosters empathy and reduces stigma, as family members can appreciate the challenges their loved one faces during recovery.
Creating a supportive home environment: By actively participating in rehab, family members can better prepare for their loved one’s return home. Understanding the challenges and strategies associated with recovery helps families create a supportive environment that reduces the risk of relapse. This may involve establishing new household routines, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering open lines of communication.
Encouraging accountability: Involvement from family members instils a sense of accountability for the individual in recovery. Knowing that their loved ones are invested in their journey encourages residents to stay committed to their treatment and personal goals, reinforcing their motivation to succeed. This accountability can be a powerful motivator, as clients recognise the importance of their progress for both themselves and their family.
Providing ongoing support: Addiction recovery is an ongoing process that continues well after formal treatment. By building stronger relationships during rehab, families can offer sustained support and encouragement, helping their loved ones navigate the challenges of post-rehab life. This ongoing connection is essential for maintaining sobriety and reinforcing the skills learned during treatment.

Why family involvement is limited

While family involvement is encouraged, it is important to recognise that there are limits to this participation for several reasons:

Focus on individual healing: The primary goal of rehab is to facilitate individual healing and recovery. Too much family involvement can inadvertently shift focus away from the individual’s needs and experiences, making it essential to strike a balance between family engagement and personal recovery.
Preventing enabling behaviours: Family members may inadvertently enable unhealthy behaviours if they are too involved in the recovery process. Setting boundaries and limiting involvement helps ensure that family members do not inadvertently undermine the individual’s commitment to sobriety or reinforce negative patterns of behaviour.
Complex dynamics: Family dynamics can be complicated and emotionally charged, especially in cases where past trauma or unresolved conflicts exist. Limiting involvement allows individuals to process their emotions without the added stress of family dynamics that may hinder their progress.
Encouraging independence: Part of the recovery process involves developing independence and self-reliance. By limiting family involvement, clients are encouraged to build their coping skills and support networks outside their family, which is crucial for long-term success.
Therapeutic boundaries: Rehab programmes often have therapeutic boundaries in place to ensure a safe and structured environment for all residents. These boundaries may include limitations on family visits and communications, allowing clients to focus solely on their recovery without outside distractions.

Incorporating family involvement into the rehab process ensures a more holistic approach to recovery, where both the individual and their loved ones can heal together, ultimately leading to healthier relationships and a more successful recovery journey. By recognising the importance of family support while also respecting the need for boundaries, we can create an environment conducive to healing and growth for everyone involved.

What to expect upon completion of rehab

As you approach the end of your rehab journey, the focus shifts toward preparing you for life after treatment. Counsellors will assist you in crafting a personalised plan for your next steps, which may include transitioning to outpatient care and setting up a robust sober support network. Additionally, you’ll explore sober activities that resonate with your interests, helping you engage in a fulfilling lifestyle.

A key component of your aftercare is UKAT’s alumni programme, designed to provide ongoing support as you navigate the challenges of life post-rehab. This programme connects you with fellow alumni, offering a sense of community and shared experience that can be invaluable in maintaining sobriety.

You’ll also be encouraged to set achievable goals for your life beyond addiction, whether that’s pursuing a new career path, building meaningful relationships, or enhancing your physical health. By leaving rehab with a clear plan and access to supportive resources, including the alumni network, you can feel more confident in your ability to maintain sobriety and build a rewarding life.

How rehab can help you

Rehab is not just about quitting a substance; it’s about gaining the tools, self-awareness, and support needed to live a healthy, rewarding life free from addiction. Whether you’re considering rehab for yourself or for a loved one, remember that this journey is filled with opportunities for healing, growth, and self-discovery. By understanding what rehab offers, you’re already taking the first step toward a brighter, more empowered future.